Twin-spindle, twin-turret machine makes for part processing speed and versatility
Florence, Kentucky, October 25, 2011 – Mazak's HYPER QUADREX 200MSY made its appearance at T3 – Tomorrow's Technology Today, a Discover Mazak 2011 event. Designed for medium to high volume unattended production, the CNC turning center features two high-performance spindles and upper and lower turrets designed for balanced cutting operations or simultaneous running of each of the spindles paired with one of the turrets to complete first and second operations at the same time.
Enhanced Done-In-One processing allows the HQR 200MSY to complete machining from slug material in the 8" chuck range in one setup. Additionally, the balance cutting capability by the upper and lower turrets provides the ultimate part throughput, with Y-axis travels of 1.97" (+/- 50 mm) in the upper and +0.787" ~ 1.97" (+20 ~ -50 mm) in the lower ensuring the manufacture of a wider range of workpieces. The HYPER QUADREX 200MSY can also work from bar stock, handling diameters up to 2.56" (65 mm) and can mill on both turrets with 7.5 hp (5.5 kW) spindles.
Major HYPER QUADREX 200MSY technologies include twin opposed turning spindles with 5,000 rpm and 30 hp (22 kW) each, plus full C-axis CNC control for part positioning and contouring at a resolution of 0.0001°. It also carries upper and lower 12-station tool turrets for fixed and rotating tools alike, and Y-axis capability for each turret allows for off-centerline operations. Both turrets machine using 7.5 hp (5.5 kW), 6,000-rpm spindles.
The HYPER QUADREX 200MSY is a Level 2 machine within Mazak's Five Levels of Multi-Tasking, which were developed as an effective way for manufacturers to determine the best multi-tasking technology for meeting their specific application and process needs.
Within the Five Levels of Multi-Tasking, Level 1 machines typically offer a single turning spindle and drum-style turret with rotating tool capability for processing minimally complex workpieces. Level 2 machines add Y-axis functionality for off-center machining operations and Done-In-One machining together with either a twin spindle and milling turret or twin spindle/twin turret machine configuration. Level 3 Multi-Tasking machines feature independent milling spindle headstocks with B-axis indexing, as well as Y-axis travels and tool storage magazines. Level 4 machines emphasize automation and processing large or highly complex workpieces using full, simultaneous 5-axis machining. Level 5 is the addition of specialized machining tasks, such as gear cutting, honing and grinding, that transform Level 4 machines into Level 5 Ultra-Tasking machines that process even the most demanding and complex parts complete in single setups.
The twin-turret and twin-spindle configuration of the HYPER QUADREX 200MSY gives manufacturers more innovative part processing opportunities. The main and secondary spindles can operate together or separately, allowing a single part to be machined on all surfaces through a coordinated "hand-off" between spindles, or two different parts can be machined simultaneously on one machine.
Because the twin turrets can operate independently or together on the same workpiece, the HYPER QUADREX 200MSY allows for machining two part features simultaneously or for balanced machining strategies that involve two tools working together on the same part feature. In cases where the part configuration permits, balanced machining can remove up to 25% of the cycle time.
For durability and reliable operation, the HYPER QUADREX 200MSY axis travels incorporate Mazak's MX Hybrid Roller Guide System for long-term machine accuracy. The Mazak MX Hybrid Roller Guide System dampens vibration to extend tool life, handles higher load capacities, accelerates and decelerates quicker to shorten cycle times, consumes less oil for "Greener" operations, and lasts longer with less required maintenance.